Emery Telcom joins communities in fundraiser to fight against cancer

In communities where much of the commerce grew from mining, residents recently dug deep-not into the earth to find energy resources, but into their pocketbooks to help save lives.

Emery Telcom organized a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society to muster up $5,000 dollars from caring citizens, businesses and organizations. In addition, the company contributed another $5,000 to the cause-bringing the total to $10,000.

"When you consider the average household income here is significantly lower than the average found along the Wasatch Front, it just goes to show you how generous and compassionate the local residents truly are," said Greg Killpack, CEO and general manager of Emery Telcom. Killpack adds, "A lot of people are affected by this horrible disease. They are our families, friends and neighbors. We felt this was the most appropriate way to help ensure that hope lives."

This sentiment was shared and expressed by many from in and outside the community.

Dick Nourse, KSL television news anchorman and cancer survivor, and Dr. Saundra Buys from the Huntsman Cancer Institute demonstrated their support by addressing the audience and sharing their insights on the fight against cancer.

Senator Orrin Hatch, who was tied up in Washington D.C., also sent a representative to show his support for the effort.

Dori Kelsch, the area director for the South Eastern Utah District of the American Cancer Society stated, "Everyday people in our community are affected by cancer, everyday someone is diagnosed with cancer, and everyday someone loses their life to this dreaded disease. This year 6,200 Utahns will hear the words 'you have cancer'.

"If not for the incredible generosity of each individual in our community we could not support our life-saving mission and our friends, neighbors and relatives may be the next to hear those dreaded words."